YYC Welcomes Aeromexico and new Non-stop Service to Mexico City

Calgary, AB -- Mexico City becomes the latest non-stop business connection from YYC Calgary International Airport, with the announcement today of new service by Aeromexico. The airline will operate daily flights from the new International Terminal at YYC, linking Calgary and Mexico’s capital city beginning June 1, 2017.

Garth Atkinson, President & CEO of The Calgary Airport Authority, said today’s announcement is great news for Alberta businesses.

“This service connects Calgary with Mexico’s primary business centre and creates additional opportunities for companies in Alberta involved in a number of industries important to both this province and Mexico, notably the agrifood and energy sectors,” said Atkinson. “Through Aeromexico’s extensive network in Central and South America, Alberta businesses also gain enhanced access to those markets,” he added.

YYC Calgary International Airport offers non-stop flights to more than 80 destinations across Canada and around the world, and the connectivity available through YYC to other parts of the country was an important factor in the airline’s decision to begin operations out of Calgary.

“Calgary is a very important destination for Aeromexico, as it will allow us to offer our customers the only nonstop flight available from Mexico City, providing customers with more choices for travel from Mexico, Central and South America to Canada, in addition to our flights to Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver,” said Aeromexico’s Chief Revenue Officer Anko van Der Werff.

“Canada is Mexico’s third largest trading partner, and this destination promotes the oil, gas and mining industries, as well as health services and education, so the airline will continue to offer increased connectivity options for its passengers,” added the executive.

Aeromexico’s new service will bring additional tourism, travel and other economic benefits to Alberta, creating the equivalent of more than 300 jobs and adding almost $27.3 million to Alberta’s GDP.

“I am thrilled to welcome Aeromexico to Calgary and Alberta! This is a great opportunity to market Alberta as a world-class tourism destination and a strong trade partner. Mexico is a key tourism, trade, and investment market for Alberta, and increasing air access to our province is critical to help diversify our economy, create jobs and grow Alberta’s tourism sector. Today’s announcement puts Alberta on the map for Mexican tourists, investors and importers,” said Ricardo Miranda, Alberta Minister of Culture and Tourism.

The new route is also aligned with the City of Calgary’s focus on economic connections with new markets.

"The City of Calgary has been very active in global markets, including Mexico, talking to companies about the tremendous opportunities that exist in Calgary for business and building important linkages between our city and these important trade and business markets,” said Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi. “This new air service connecting Calgary with Mexico's business centre is an important one for our city, and showcases the successful collaborative efforts being invested to support and expand our economy."

Aeromexico will operate its Boeing 737-800 aircraft, seating 160 passengers, and offering Clase Premier – Aeromexico’s business class – on the service between YYC and Mexico City. The flight will arrive in Calgary at 2230 hrs and depart for Mexico City at 2330 hrs.

ABOUT THE CALGARY AIRPORT AUTHORITY

The Calgary Airport Authority is a not-for-profit, non-share capital organization, incorporated under the Alberta Regional Airports Authorities Act, and is responsible for the safe, secure and efficient management of the YYC Calgary International Airport (YYC) and Springbank Airport (YBW) under long-term lease from the Government of Canada. YYC's mandate is to advance economic and community development by providing improved airline and transportation services for the benefit of the public. The Authority has invested over $4 billion into the continued development of YYC, opening Canada's longest runway in 2014 and a new International Terminal in 2016. YYC is a key economic driver for Calgary and Alberta, generating more than $8 billion in economic activity annually and creating 48,000 jobs.